Back in 2019, Amarillo found itself on the verge of something no other city in the nation could claim—one campus integrating a veterinary school, medical school, pharmacy school, and a major research facility. This unprecedented convergence of education and innovation posed a critical question: How could Amarillo harness this advantage to create jobs, develop a highly skilled workforce, tackle regional challenges, and fuel long-term economic growth?
By early 2021, the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) and its board of directors took on that challenge. Their answer was The RANGE—a dedicated economic engine designed to secure research funding, drive innovation, and position the Texas Panhandle as a global leader in food production.
Building on Strengths
With agriculture as the Panhandle’s largest economic driver, it became clear that any effort should focus on strengthening and expanding Amarillo’s role in food, fiber, and fuel production. The AEDC began working with industry experts, leaders in higher education, and community members to explore the region’s full potential. After conducting more than 150 interviews with local stakeholders and working with the nationally renowned team of HR&A Advisors on a feasibility study, one message emerged loud and clear: Amarillo has the potential to become a global hub for food production.
But there was a major obstacle—without a dedicated growth engine, Amarillo would miss out on the billions in state and federal funding available for economic transformation. The solution? Create an organization that could secure these funds and bring them directly into the region. Recognizing the magnitude of this opportunity, the AEDC started work to develop an economic engine that could apply for funding, work with the higher educational institutions in the area, and industry experts to develop solutions to the growing number of challenges facing our area and the agricultural sector. Once again, it turned to HR&A Advisors, who have helped develop projects like this across the nation, including the Texas Tech Research Park and San Diego State University’s Mission Valley. After much planning, public engagement, and strategic development, The RANGE was born.
A Timeline: From Concept to Reality
November 22, 2021: The AEDC Board of Directors introduced Bob Geolas from HR&A Advisors, Inc., who presented a study on innovation projects in Amarillo and the Panhandle area, focusing on the labor market, professional services, and STEM programs.
February 22, 2022: The AEDC Board of Directors heard the results of HR&A's research and introduced a proposed Innovation Development Strategic Plan. The AEDC Board unanimously approved the plan.
January 20, 2023: AEDC provides three-years of dues to The RANGE to launch its efforts
February 27, 2023: The Amarillo Global Food Hub, later rebranded as The RANGE, was introduced to the public during an AEDC Board meeting.
May 2023: The RANGE officially launched with a public event, marking its commitment to driving innovation and economic growth in the Texas Panhandle.
The Mission: What Does The RANGE Do?
Unlocks Billions in Funding Currently Going to Other Cities – As Amarillo’s designated growth engine, The RANGE can access state and federal grants that are otherwise out of reach.
Attracts Investment & Drives Innovation – The RANGE is working with Texas Tech, West Texas A&M, industry leaders, and government agencies to bring cutting-edge research and technology advancements to the Panhandle.
Develops a Future-Ready Workforce – By securing funds for workforce development, The RANGE ensures Amarillo is training workers for the industries of tomorrow.
Addresses Key Regional Challenges – Works on critical issues in agriculture, water conservation, health, technology, and economic diversification.
The Impact: Real Results, Real Impact
In just a short time, The RANGE has already delivered measurable success:
Secured over $3 million in funding, including $1.8 million in grants for agricultural research, workforce training, and commercial testing.
Invested $1 million in workforce training equipment at the WT Enterprise Center to support manufacturing and processing jobs.
Launched high-impact initiatives like ProProcess, AgriShield, AgriNet, WaterWise, and Horizons, each designed to strengthen Amarillo’s industries and workforce.
But this is just the beginning. Without The RANGE, Amarillo risks falling further behind while other Texas cities secure major economic wins. With it, the Panhandle is positioned to compete, grow, and lead for generations to come.